Look Sharp Store has officially opened its doors in Silverdale Centre, right next to Chemist Warehouse.This marks the ninth Auckland location for the well-known variety retailer, which first launched in 2008. With stores offering nearly 20,000 different items, including party supplies, dress-up costumes, homeware, giftware, and licensed novelty goods. It’s the kind of place where you can find something fun and unexpected every time you visit.Alongside its regular product lines, Look Sharp brings in new stock regularly from both local and international suppliers. Look Sharp Store at Shop 5/40, Silverdale Centre.The team says they are committed to giving customers maximum value for their money, and they’ve built a loyal following across Auckland by doing just that.For locals on the Hibiscus Coast, the arrival of Look Sharp adds another handy option for everyday essentials and special occasions alike. Whether you’re planning a party, prepping for a school dress-up day, or simply browsing for a gift or home item, it’s a colourful and convenient addition to our neighbourhood shopping scene.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

The Government is proposing the biggest changes to New Zealand’s driver licensing system since 2011—and Coasties have a chance to have their say.From 14 April to 9 June, public consultation will be open on a proposal to remove the full licence driving test and reduce the number of eyesight tests required.Transport Minister Chris Bishop says the changes aim to make the process faster, fairer, and more affordable.Right now, getting a full car licence in New Zealand involves two practical tests and three eyesight checks. It can take years and cost at least $362.50 in fees.Under the proposal:The full licence practical test would be removed.Restricted drivers would move to a full licence after a clean driving record for 12–18 months.A zero-alcohol limit would apply to all learner and restricted drivers.Demerit thresholds would be halved for those on learner and restricted licences.Eyesight tests would only be required when first applying and again after age 45.A hazard perception test may also be introduced at the learner stage.Coasties aged under 25 would be able to get a full licence after 18 months on a clean restricted—just 12 months if they complete an approved advanced driving course.The changes are designed to improve access to jobs, education, and healthcare—especially for the one million adults in New Zealand who don’t yet hold a full licence.If approved, the changes would be implemented in July 2026.To have your say, visit the Ministry of Transport website from 14 April.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Parents and children are in for a wet start to the school holidays as heavy rain and strong winds will batter parts of the country this week.MetService said a large weather system is looking to set up camp just west of the country on Tuesday and would bring heavy rain to the upper North Island.Meterologist Mmathapelo Makgabutlane, told Midday Report, Northland, Auckland and the Coromandel were likely to be the first hit, with the wild weather extending to Bay of Plenty and Gisborne as the week progressed.Parts of the South Island including Buller into Tasman and Nelson would also be affected, she said.For anyone looking to escape being stuck inside over Easter, the best place to be would be Southland, Makgabutlane said, which would be "a little more on the dry side".The South Island was experiencing a cold snap, she said, and much colder weather was expected on Tuesday, but Easter weekend would be on the warmer side."So towards the end of the week we can expect warmer nights and days."It's a bit of weather bingo at the moment".From Wednesday, Northland, Auckland and Coromandel will be under a strong wind watch and a heavy rain watch.MetService said the worst of the weather for the North Island could be expected on Thursday."With plenty of travellers on the road over the Easter Break, people should be extra cautious and keep a close eye on the forecast, particularly with the exodus from Auckland lining up with the most significant weather," MetService said.People were advised to clear gutters and drains and trim back branches on trees along with securing any loose objects.The windy and rainy conditions were expected to continue into next week.

North Aucklanders, including Coasties, are feeling more positive about life, according to new data from the 2024 Quality of Life survey.Released this month on Knowledge Auckland, the detailed regional report builds on topline results shared in February. It draws on responses from 2,524 Aucklanders and highlights how factors like housing, community connection, and transport affect wellbeing.For Coasties, the news is largely reassuring.Two-thirds of North Auckland respondents said their quality of life had improved in the past year — a figure that outpaced other regions across the city. About 75% rated their overall quality of life positively.Locally, housing satisfaction stood out. A strong 78% said their home suited their household’s needs, and 81% agreed their neighbourhood worked well for them — the highest scores across all of Auckland.Community connection also fared well. Just over 43% of North Aucklanders said they felt a sense of community, slightly higher than the city average.However, not everything is rosy.Coastal erosion remains a concern, with 57% of locals identifying it as a problem — one of the highest rates in the region. Traffic congestion also continues to impact daily life, with 81% seeing it as an issue.On a positive note, North Aucklanders reported some of the lowest levels of anger, exclusion, or intolerance based on personal characteristics. And when it comes to trust in institutions, they had slightly more faith in the justice system than other Aucklanders, though trust in Council decision-making remained low at 29%.The results are expected to guide future planning under the Councils Auckland Plan 2050 and the Thriving Communities Strategy.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Digital platforms like Airbnb are reshaping the way cities function—especially when it comes to housing, tourism, and local economies. But their impact isn’t the same everywhere. Between 2019 and 2023, senior lecturer Dr Elham Bahmanteymouri investigated Airbnb’s effects across seven cities, including Auckland, Wellington, Queenstown, and Christchurch.Dr Bahmanteymouri teaches architecture and planning at the Auckland University School of Engineering and Design.Here’s what her research found:In Auckland, Airbnb is strongest in high-value neighbourhoods. It supports local businesses and gives property owners a useful side income. But it hasn’t had a major influence on house prices or community change.Wellington sees more negative effects. Listings cluster in business zones, not suburbs, but concerns remain around fair taxation and hotel industry impact.Queenstown shows the biggest shift. Locals have turned second homes into Airbnb rentals, fuelling a long-term rental shortage. Even during the Covid-19 slowdown, housing was tight.Christchurch has used Airbnb to help revive areas affected by the quakes. Short-term rentals have supported urban renewal and put idle properties to use—but again, fewer long-term rentals are the trade-off.Each city’s story is different. Regulations matter, as does how Airbnb is woven into existing planning.One key insight? Airbnb brings what Dr Bahmanteymouri calls “conceived” (measurable) and “lived” (day-to-day) effects. The financial upside is real—Deloitte pegged Auckland’s Airbnb economic impact at $200m in 2018—but so is the experience of neighbours seeing communities shift around them.So what does it mean for Coasties?For many Kiwi cities, Airbnb is more opportunity than threat. But it’s clear that good regulation and local insight are crucial. Done well, short-term rentals can support tourism, bring in income, and help cities bounce back after tough times—without pushing out long-term renters or changing the character of our neighbourhoods.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

A bold new tech plan is calling on Auckland to become a global innovation hub—and it’s sparking a timely question for our own backyard: why not on the Hibiscus Coast?​The "Time for Growth" report from the Auckland Tech Council outlines a roadmap to transform the region into a world-class centre for innovation.It calls for urgent investment and cross-sector collaboration, with early backing already coming from 2degrees, AWS, Deloitte, and others.​Simon Bridges, CEO of the Auckland Business Chamber, said the moment to act is now.“We made the case last year. Now we’ve got a real plan to get us there,” he said.​At the heart of the vision is the Newmarket Innovation Precinct—seen as a key anchor for tech development, particularly in AI and quantum.The report calls for private and public investment to turn Auckland into a talent magnet and tech powerhouse.​But as plans take shape, Coasties might be wondering: could some of that energy land here?​We’ve got space. We’ve got lifestyle appeal. And we’re already home to smart, ambitious people—many of whom commute daily into the city’s tech corridors.​With the right investment, the Hibiscus Coast could help solve some of the very problems this report highlights—like the need for affordable innovation space, talent attraction, and regional growth.​Key recommendations in the report include:Building an advanced innovation hub.​Creating regulatory sandboxes—starting with MedTech.​Launching global trade missions to spotlight Kiwi startups.​Forming an Employment Accord to close the digital skills gap.​Attracting new capital from venture funds and superannuation investors.​The message is clear: Auckland’s tech future depends on bold moves and broad participation. And there’s no reason the Hibiscus Coast can’t be part of that future.​With strong community support and plenty of room to grow, the Hibiscus Coast may be perfectly placed to host innovation hubs, tech incubators—or even a future-forward vision like DFIP: the Dairy Flat Innovation Park.It may only exist in our minds for now—but it’s an idea well worth backing.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

More adult children are living at home, according to the latest release of 2023 Census data by Stats NZ.The new figures, released this week, offer a detailed look at how families and households across New Zealand—and here on the Hibiscus Coast—are changing.In 2023, 34.5 percent of families with children had at least one adult child still living at home. That figure rises to 38.7 percent for families with a Pacific background.Stats NZ principal analyst Dr Rosemary Goodyear said the number of adult children living at home has risen sharply—up 27.3 percent since 2013.“This may reflect increased cost-of-living pressures,” said Goodyear.By comparison, the number of families with dependent children grew just 8.2 percent over the same period.Locally, this may reflect what many Coasties already know—young adults are staying home longer as rent and living expenses rise.The Census also found more male sole parents, up from 15.8 percent in 2013 to 17.8 percent in 2023. However, men were less likely to be caring for very young children.Just 8.9 percent of sole parents with a child under one were male. That number rises to over 22 percent for families with teens aged 13 to 17.In terms of household size and makeup, the data reveals New Zealand’s increasing ethnic diversity.Nearly 80 percent of households had at least one person of European ethnicity in 2023, but that proportion is falling. Meanwhile, the share of households with Māori, Pacific, and Asian ethnicities is rising.Households with Pacific peoples had the largest average size at 4.0 people, followed by Māori and Asian households at 3.3 people. European households averaged just 2.6 people and were more likely to be one- or two-person homes.These shifts paint a clearer picture of who we live with and how family life is evolving—important insights that help inform future planning in health, housing, and education.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Auckland is becoming a testing ground for innovative geothermal technology that could help reduce household power bills—by tapping into the heat beneath our feet.Researchers from the University of Auckland, led by Associate Professor Sadiq J. Zarrouk, have started drilling a test well in Takanini to explore how underground warmth could help lower water heating costs for homes and businesses.Partnering with local drilling firm Drill Force NZ Ltd, the team has fitted the well with 15 temperature sensors. The data will be used to gauge how much heat can be harnessed from shallow depths—down to just 20 metres underground.The goal is to create a simple, low-cost heating system that uses natural ground warmth to pre-heat water. A pipe would run through a small well near the property, gently raising water temperature before it enters the home’s hot water system. Less electricity would be needed to finish the job—potentially saving households up to $20 each month.“This could change how we heat buildings,” Zarrouk says. “It’s clean, cost-effective, and easy to apply to both new and existing homes.”To make the system more efficient during peak usage, the team is testing a special material that stores and releases heat as needed. Machine learning tools are also being used to analyse the sensor data and guide the design of a second well, which is planned in the coming months.If successful, the technology could offer a new way for Coasties—and all Kiwis—to cut energy bills and reduce reliance on traditional power sources. The two wells will be monitored over the next year to better understand how ground temperature changes with the seasons.It’s early days, but the potential is big.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Welcome to The Week That Was—your go-to recap of the most important news, stories, and updates for the Hibiscus Coast community.Coastie Investors Urged To Stay CalmRead moreOrewa Reserve Feedback Now OpenRead moreSilverdale Festival Celebrates History and CommunityRead moreGulf Harbour Ferry Misses Morning RunRead moreOrewa Library Reopens Soon at Moana AvenueRead moreStay ahead of the curve—get the latest Hibiscus Coast news delivered directly to your phone.Download the Hibiscus Coast App today and never miss a story!Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

The 2025 World’s Wealthiest Cities Report is out — and for the first time, Auckland is no longer among the world’s top 50 millionaire hubs.Published by Henley & Partners in partnership with New World Wealth, the report highlights a global shift in wealth migration and city rankings. Auckland, once a regular on the list, has been replaced by Lisbon, which debuts at 50th with 22,200 resident millionaires.Meanwhile, the United States continues to dominate the rankings, claiming 11 of the Top 50 spots. New York holds firm at number one with 384,500 millionaires, while the Bay Area (San Francisco and Silicon Valley) ranks 2nd and now boasts more billionaires than New York.Asia’s fast-growing tech cities are making their mark too. Shenzhen leads global growth with a staggering 142% rise in millionaires since 2014. Dubai, Hangzhou, and Bengaluru also posted triple-digit growth, reflecting a broader global shift toward emerging financial and tech hubs.Cities such as Chicago, Miami, and Washington DC climbed the rankings, while London and Moscow are among the few that saw a decline in millionaire numbers over the past decade.According to Henley & Partners CEO Dr. Juerg Steffen, cities combining legal certainty, strong infrastructure, and investment-friendly policies are leading the charge.For Auckland, the drop may signal the need to better compete with global hubs attracting wealth through innovation, tech, and migration incentives.The full report by Henley & Partners and New World Wealth.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Kmart has issued an urgent recall for a popular reusable coffee cup after a reported injury linked to a lid malfunction.The recall affects the Anko Double Walled Coffee Cup with Lid, sold at Kmart stores—between 18 December 2024 and 27 March 2025. The cup was available in sunset, sage, and black.The issue arises when hot liquid is poured into the cup. The lid may suddenly pop off due to the lack of a pressure release valve, posing a serious risk of burns from hot liquid or steam. Coasties are urged to stop using the cup immediately and return it to their nearest Kmart store for a full refund.If returning the item isn’t possible, Kmart asks customers to phone their Customer Service team on 0800 945 995 (Monday to Friday, 9:00–20:00) or visit www.kmart.co.nz.This safety warning is a timely reminder to always keep an eye out for product recall notices—especially when hot liquids are involved.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

If you’re stocking up on Easter eggs for the kids in your supermarket shopping this weekend, you can expect them to cost a little more than they might have in years past.Rising cocoa prices have put pressure on the price of chocolate, and that’s flowing through to the sort that can be delivered by the Easter Bunny, too.In 2012, a Cadbury supermarket egg with two chocolate bars was selling for $13.99, or $10.99 or special.In 2016, the same eggs were cheaper – selling for $9.99.In 2022, the normal price was displayed at $12.90 but eggs could be found at $9 on special.A 325g pack of Cadbury marshmallow eggs was $9.90 in 2022, or $6.50 on special.Now, a 325g bag of marshmallow eggs is selling for $12 or $8 on special at Woolworths.General food inflation would normally have pushed the price up to about $7.50 over that period of time.Cadbury eggs seem to have changed, to include mini eggs rather than chocolate bars.These are retailing for $9.90 at Countdown, down from $15, and a pineapple lumps egg is selling for $12.Infometrics chief executive Brad Olsen said chocolate prices were higher than a year ago.Stats NZ data showed a block of chocolate had increased in price by 10 percent, to an average $5.72 in February.He said that would probably underestimate the amount that some people were paying for chocolate.He said cocoa prices had tripled since 2020.“Rising chocolate prices are due to lower cocoa supply from major producing countries in Africa, and the World Bank Commodity Price Index shows cocoa prices sitting three times higher in March 2025 than five years ago, with prices the last two months easing back slightly off record highs.”He said, if New Zealand chocolate prices had tracked international cocoa prices, a block of chocolate would be selling for more like $15 to $18.“The fact that domestic chocolate prices have been increasing, but not at the same intense rate as international cocoa prices, shows that higher spot prices for commodities doesn’t immediately hit shelf prices, at least not for chocolate.“Unlike for something like fuel, usually cocoa supply agreements will be locked in at a certain price for a period, meaning higher prices from lower cocoa production might take longer to hit shelf chocolate prices. It also suggests that chocolate prices this Easter could push higher.“Infometrics senior economist Brad Olsen.Supplied / James Gilberd PhotospaceAt Kiwibank, economist Sabrina Delgado agreed it was a supply problem.“Climate-related production shortfalls, tangled-up supply chains, and increased demand have all played a role in this bitter not sweet situation,” she said.“According to the International Cocoa Organization, the global cocoa deficit for the 2023/2024 season was estimated at a hefty 440,000 tonnes. And while their February forecast for 2024/2025 predicts a turnaround—a surplus of about 142,000 tonnes—prices have yet to meaningfully follow suit.”She said cocoa futures were still well above historical levels.“At the end of 2024, futures contracts for cocoa beans peaked near $12,000 per metric ton. More recently, they’ve cooled to around $8,500—but that’s still nearly triple the $3000 price tag from just two years ago, and miles above the $2600 average we’ve seen since 2008.“And it doesn’t help that manufacturers also tend to buy well in advance, so even if and when prices drop, it could take a while before those savings show up in the chocolate aisle.”

The Blues will field a mostly unchanged line-up this Saturday when they take on Moana Pasifika at Eden Park in Round 9 of Super Rugby Pacific. Kickoff is set for 16:35.The match is the first in an exciting double-header, with the Blues women facing Matatū in the Super Rugby Aupiki final at 19:05.Hooker Ricky Riccitelli returns from injury, replacing Kurt Eklund in the starting side, while Angus Ta’avao comes in for Marcel Renata, who’s sidelined with a calf strain.It will be a special evening for second five AJ Lam, who is set to earn his 50th Super Rugby cap.Coming off a tough win over the Hurricanes, the Blues are hoping to keep momentum on their side.“Moana is a big game for us,” said head coach Vern Cotter.“Last week’s win was a real team effort… we’re looking forward to the challenge on Saturday in front of our home fans.”Saturday’s game day will also feature a free Pacific Festival on the Eden Park Outer Oval from 10am to 3pmCoasties heading into the city can expect food trucks, community stalls, live performances and plenty of family fun before the rugby kicks off.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Southbound lanes on State Highway 1 between the Silverdale interchange and Oteha Valley Road will be restricted during the day on Wednesday 16 April from 11am to 7pm, and Thursday 17 April from 11am to 3pm.The work is part of scheduled highway maintenance expected to continue through to June 2025.While traffic will still be able to travel southbound at all times, Coasties are advised to expect delays, slow down, and follow all traffic management instructions.Ramp closures and lane restrictions may begin before the main closure times. All work is weather dependent and may shift if conditions change.You may wish to allow extra time when travelling during the affected hours.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Orewa Library is relocating back to its newly refurbished home at 12 Moana Avenue and will be closed for two weeks from Monday 5 May to Sunday 18 May.During the closure, Coasties won’t be able to collect holds or return items at Orewa Library. However, returns can still be made at Whangaparāoa Library throughout the relocation period.Payments with invoices can also be made at NZ Post shops.The doors to the refreshed Orewa Library will officially reopen on Monday 19 May. Locals can look forward to enjoying the upgraded space and services designed to better serve the community.Know something local worth sharing?Send it to [email protected] — we’ll help spread the word.

Looking for plans? Explore events happening soon on the Hibiscus Coast and start planning your next activity!Adoption Month Pat & ChatSat April 12More detailsWhangaparaoa Repair CafeSun April 13More detailsRoadshow Experience UnleashedThu April 17More detailsWant to see more events? Explore everything happening in our community on the Hibiscus Coast App.Have an event to share?Promote it for Free - click here!

Frustrated commuters were left stranded yesterday morning when the 7:30 ferry service from Auckland to Gulf Harbour was abruptly diverted to Half Moon Bay.The disruption—without advance warning—meant many Coasties faced unexpected delays, with some reporting commutes of over two hours to reach work.The reason for the diversion has not yet been officially confirmed by Auckland Transport or ferry operator Fullers360.Understandably, the mood online was tense.Social media channels lit up with comments from affected passengers, many of whom are now calling for stronger representation and action.“When will this ever end?” one commuter wrote, echoing the general sentiment.Others mentioned picketing or launching a coordinated message campaign to make their voices heard.This isn’t the first time peak-time services have been cancelled or disrupted with little notice.Locals say the pattern is causing serious strain on daily life—especially for those who rely on the ferry to get to and from work.Calls are growing louder for a reliable, long-term solution.Many feel it’s no longer enough to wait for improvements “down the track.”Coasties are asking for transparency, consistency, and above all—respect for their time.Whether that comes from Auckland Transport, Fullers360, or elected leaders, remains to be seen.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]

Your weekend weather at a glance.Coasties, here’s what the next four days have in store:Friday, 11/4 Mostly cloudy. Fairly breezy Easterly winds.High: 20Low: 14Saturday, 12/4A mix of sun and cloud. Fairly breezy South to Sou'East winds.High: 21Low: 14Sunday, 13/4Partly cloudy. Fairly breezy Easterly winds.High: 21Low: 15Monday, 14/4A mix of sun and cloud. Breezy Sou'East winds.High: 21Low: 13Looking for more details?Check out our full Weather & Travel section in the Hibiscus Coast App for:🌊 Tide information🌬️ Wind conditions🌊 Wave updates🌞 UV levels🏖️ Safe swimming areasand much more.Everything you need is inside the Hibiscus Coast App – anytime, anywhere!

After more than a decade of planning, a new purpose-built Surf Life Saving Community Hub is nearly ready to take shape at Ōrewa Reserve.The two-level, 2,000m² facility will serve not only as the new home for Ōrewa Surf Life Saving but as a modern, multi-use space for Coasties to gather, connect, and stay safe at the beach.All consents are now in place, a construction company has been appointed, and $5 million in cornerstone funding has been secured from Auckland Council, Surf Life Saving NZ, and Foundation North.Local business G.J. Gardner Homes Rodney East has also led a strong fundraising effort—but more support is still needed to start construction by March 2026.If you haven’t yet seen the fabulous walkthrough video on YouTube, now’s the perfect time.Key naming rights and sponsorship opportunities remain open, including for the lifesaving operations building and first aid room.Once built, the Hub will offer enhanced beach safety, better access to emergency services, and flexible space for community use, events, and meetings.However, during construction, access to parts of the Surf Club Reserve will be limited.The new building’s location—closer to the road—will also change the layout of green spaces and parking within the reserve.To learn more or offer support, visit orewasurflifesavingcommunityhub.co.nz, or contact Andrea May on 021 170 1838.Together, the community can make this long-envisioned facility a reality.Seen something local we should cover?Let us know at [email protected]